Pak-made bigger drones carrying drugs, arms sighted in Punjab for 3 months
Punjab's security establishment is grappling with a new and increasingly sophisticated cross-border threat as Pakistan-based smuggling networks deploy larger drones capable of carrying heavier consignments
Punjab's security establishment is grappling with a new and increasingly sophisticated cross-border threat as Pakistan-based smuggling networks deploy larger drones capable of carrying heavier consignments of drugs, arms and ammunition into India, raising fresh concerns ahead of an election year. Security agencies tracking activity along Punjab's 553-km international border say the nature of drone intrusions has changed dramatically over recent months. What began as sporadic attempts using small commercial drones has evolved into a technologically advanced operation involving high-capacity platforms, satellite communications and sophisticated navigation systems. Read Full Story The development has triggered discussions among Punjab Police, the Border Security Force (BSF) and intelligence agencies, with senior officials assessing how best to counter what is emerging as one of the state's most significant security challenges. BIGGER DRONES, LARGER PAYLOADS According to security sources, Pakistan-based handlers and ISI-linked networks are increasingly relying on larger drone platforms such as the DJI Mavic 3 series and Air 3S variants. Unlike smaller drones used in previous years, these systems can transport multiple kilograms of heroin in a single flight, operate over longer distances and utilise advanced navigation capabilities. Officials say many of these drones are programmed to automatically return to their launch points if subjected to jamming attempts, making interception far more difficult. The shift has allowed smugglers to move larger consignments while reducing the number of flights needed to penetrate Indian airspace. Sources familiar with the security grid said the issue has become a major topic of discussion among border security agencies, with further consultations involving Punjab Police chief Gaurav Yadav expected.
STARLINK RECOVERY RAISES ALARM One of the biggest warning signs emerged on May 24 when Punjab Police's Counter Intelligence unit dismantled a drug smuggling network in Ferozepur district. Four accused were arrested and police recovered 28.12 kg of heroin, Rs 9.5 lakh in suspected drug proceeds and a Starlink satellite communication device. Security officials believe the recovery may signal the next phase of cross-border smuggling operations. Sources say satellite-based internet connectivity could allow smugglers to maintain real-time communication with handlers across the border, improve drone navigation and reduce dependence on radio-frequency communication systems that can be intercepted or jammed. Officials involved in anti-drone operations say traditional "soft kill" techniques may prove less effective against satellite-linked systems. "We so far rely on soft kill methodology but for satellite-controlled drones, there has to be a radar," a source familiar with the operations said. DRONE INCURSIONS CONTINUE TO RISE The BSF has repeatedly reported a rise in drone incursions along the Punjab border. Most payloads are dropped in agricultural fields near the border before being collected by local operatives linked to smuggling syndicates. Joint operations involving the BSF and Punjab Police have led to multiple recoveries of heroin consignments ranging from a few hundred grams to several kilograms. Sources said that during Operation Sindoor, hundreds of drones were detected across the border region. Although some anti-drone assets were temporarily shifted to Jammu and Kashmir, they were subsequently redeployed in Punjab as the threat intensified.
The BriefWire